Craig Branch has skied to within one place of his career-best result, finishing 28th in the opening World Cup downhill of the season in Lake Louise, Canada.

Branch was just two seconds flat behind race winner Didier Cuche of Switzerland, covering the 3km course in a time of one minute 52.32 seconds.

The 32-year-old Perisher Blue skier was in impressive company, finishing one place ahead of two time World Cup overall champion Bode Miller and five clear of defending World Cup champion Axsel Lund Svindal of Norway.

Branch’s previous best World Cup result was 27th in Val Gardena in December 2007.

The joint NSWIS/AIS scholarship holder endured an injury-troubled season in 2008-09 but has clearly started the pre-Vancouver season in fine form.

Branch will contest a Super G race tomorrow morning Australian time.

OWI